Abstract

Traditionally, solar flare detection has been achieved through methods that rely on the presence of expensive satellites. We propose an alternative method that produces reliable detection of solar flares in a cheap and conveniently earth-based way. This paper discusses the design, practical implementation, demonstration of functionality and usefulness of a reception and monitoring system for VLF (Very Low Frequency, 3 kHz–30 kHz) radio signals, transmitted by stations located thousands of kilometers from the reception point, that can be used to accurately detect solar flares. We chose this frequency range because VLF radio waves are efficiently reflected by the lower layers of the ionosphere, and diurnal or sudden changes in these layers cause corresponding variations in the received signal level over long distances (over 1000 km).